LSW Hive Helpers are looking to expand their garden behind the school. At their Wednesday meeting, the club talked about adding an informational post to let guests know what their mission is. 

In the 2018-2019 school year, Hive Helpers applied and received a grant from the Nebraska Wildlife Federation, giving them funding to carry out their plan to help solitary bees in the community. 

Solitary bees are a type of breed that don’t nest in hives. Solitary bees nest alone, instead of with a group. Hive Helpers provide a safe space for them. 

Adding a post in the garden will let visitors know exactly what Hive Helpers are doing. The Nebraska Wildlife Federation will be putting their official mark on the garden by providing this post.

“The post just gives information about pollinators and the Nebraska Wildlife Federation, information about solitary bees and pollinators, just a sign so people know where we got funding for the garden,” senior Katrina Schwensen said. “I believe on September 21 is when we put in the post.”

But an informational post is not all the club has planned for Sept. 21. The garden itself needs updates as well. 

“We will also be putting in a solitary bee house on the same day,” senior Serena Jentz said, “It provides a nesting spot for solitary bees who nest alone instead of in hives.”

The solitary bee house was also provided by the Nebraska Wildlife Federation. It looks like a bird house, but serves a completely different purpose. 

Catch the Hive Helpers at their next meeting on Wednesdays after school in A105, and meet them at the garden at 7:30 a.m. on Sept. 21 to be apart of the excitement.